This series of puzzle apps has been designed to introduce te Reo Māori words and phrases to tamariki in a fun and engaging way. Iconic characters Hairy Maclary and Slinky Malinki, mix it up with a friendly Tuatara, a road trip and a boil-up – learning reo is cool!

The puzzles will be released weekly during June 2017. The puzzles were created by technology innovator Kiwa Digital Ltd, an Auckland based digital publisher recognized for its commitment to te Reo Māori and with a growing international reputation for its work with language revitalization.

The project is funded by Te Māngai Pāho, the New Zealand Government Agency whose role is to promote Māori language and culture by making funds available for broadcasting and production.

The objective is to introduce tamariki to te Reo Māori in a playful way that encourages ongoing interest; while also capturing whānau’s attention with a positive message that this is a language and culture that is highly relevant to their children’s future. The targeted audience’s language level is receptive audience (beginner 0% to 30%). The targeted audience includes both Māori and non Māori audiences.